Executive Board
Our Executive Board is composed of dedicated leaders who are committed to guiding the mission and vision of the Stacey Monts Foundation. Through their leadership, experience, and passion for service, they work collaboratively to support our initiatives and strengthen our impact within the community.
Shantel Dean
Executive Director
Shantel is the Founder and Executive Director of the Stacey Monts Foundation. She is a passionate leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate dedicated to serving underserved families through impactful outreach and community-based initiatives.
In addition to her work with the foundation, Shantel is also a chef and the owner of A Divine Taste of Heaven, where she brings her passion for food and service together. With a heart for giving back and a commitment to empowering others, she leads with purpose, faith, and vision while continuing to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Amari Kelsey
Treasurer
Amari is a passionate entrepreneur, community advocate, and devoted mother based in Atlanta, Georgia. With a strong background in the insurance industry, she is known for her expertise and commitment to helping individuals and families secure their futures through her business, ASK Consulting Services.
In 2018, Amari founded the Stacey Monts Foundation in honor of her late brother, turning personal loss into purpose. Through her leadership, she remains dedicated to uplifting others and creating meaningful impact within the community. Amari is also a proud mother, drawing daily inspiration from her daughter to continue serving her community with compassion and purpose.
Nhandi Ashmore
President
Nhandi serves as President of the Stacey Monts Foundation and has a deep personal connection to its mission. After losing her brother to domestic violence, she is committed to honoring that loss through service and community impact.
As a full-time realtor, she brings dedication, leadership, and a passion for creating spaces where every voice is heard. She is excited to build community, foster connection, and create meaningful change through the foundation’s work.
Dejuan Forris
Secretary
DeJuan brings a strong background in customer service, with a focus on building meaningful connections and creating positive experiences. He is also a passionate gamer, actor, and entrepreneur who brings creativity and energy into all that he does.
Deeply family-oriented, DeJuan is committed to supporting the mission of the Stacey Monts Foundation and values the opportunity to give back to the community in meaningful ways.
Chareese Hughes
Vice President
Chareese is a licensed social worker with extensive experience working with families, communities, and mental health. She brings a strong passion for advocacy, service, and creating meaningful impact.
In her role as Vice President, she is committed to supporting the foundation’s mission by helping strengthen partnerships, improve organizational structure, and expand its reach within the community.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is made up of dedicated individuals who are committed to serving with purpose and making a lasting impact. Through leadership, collaboration, and community engagement, they help guide the Foundation’s mission and initiatives.
Michelle Gayle
Program Director
Michelle is an experienced nonprofit leader with over 20 years of service in social services and program development. She currently serves as a Corporate Training and Development Manager, where she leads impactful learning and leadership initiatives.
Michelle is passionate about giving back and remains committed to supporting underserved communities both locally and globally.
Shante Bradford
Board Member
Shante is a founding member of the Stacey Monts Foundation and previously served as Vice President, helping to shape the organization’s early vision and community impact. A devoted mother of two, Shanté is passionate about serving the community and supporting children and families in need. She is currently pursuing her MBA at University of Kentucky and plans to obtain her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification to further strengthen her leadership and organizational impact. Driven by service and purpose, Shanté remains committed to uplifting and empowering the communities she serves.
Ericka Monts
Volunteer Coordinator
Ericka is dedicated to creating opportunities and giving back to the community through meaningful service and outreach. With a professional background as a client consultant and experience in financial services, she has developed strong skills in client relations, problem-solving, and leadership.
She is committed to making a positive and lasting impact, guided by compassion, integrity, and a passion for serving others.
Richardo "Ricky" Copeland
Board Member
Ricky is a dedicated community advocate and longtime truck driver with a passion for serving others, particularly at-risk youth. With a strong commitment to giving back, Ricky has been an integral part of the Stacey Monts Foundation through his consistent support, service, and willingness to help wherever needed. His heart for community outreach and youth empowerment reflects his dedication to making a meaningful impact and supporting the Foundation’s mission.
Jasmine Benjamin
Board Member
Jasmine s a founding member of the Stacey Monts Foundation and previously served as President, helping to establish the organization’s vision and community impact. As a proud mother of one, she is passionate about wellness, youth development, and community service. Jasmine earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Georgia State Universityand is currently pursuing her master’s degree with plans to become a Nurse Practitioner. Her long-term goal is to open a wellness clinic dedicated to supporting youth through both mental and physical health services.
Junior Executive Board
Our Junior Executives represent the next generation of leaders within the Stacey Monts Foundation. Through their involvement, they are learning the importance of service, community, and giving back, while helping continue the foundation’s mission and impact.
Legaci Hayes
Legaci is a rising sophomore and all-around powerhouse, balancing life as a multi-sport athlete in flag football and softball with her creative side as a fashionista who loves sewing her own unique styles. She’s certified in babysitting and AED/CPR, showing her strong sense of responsibility and care for others.
Legaci loves giving back through walkathons and shines as a junior camp counselor for children with disabilities, where her compassion and energy make a lasting impact. A true dog lover with a big heart, she brings positivity, leadership, and style to her role with the Stacey Monts Foundation.
Parker Gopie
Parker is a rising 9th grade honor roll student with a passion for creativity and storytelling through photography. She is the founder of her own photography business, Pik’d by P, and enjoys capturing special moments at community events. As a Junior Executive, Parker is excited to support the mission of the Stacey Monts Foundation while continuing to grow her skills and give back.
You’ll often see Parker at our events capturing moments behind the camera.